When someone loses someone close to them, this can be life changing. It will be even harder if this is the first time they’ve experienced loss to this extent.
For those close to the person grieving, it can also be a tough time. It’s hard to see someone you love going through such an immense sense of pain. You may be wondering the best ways to act around them and what you can do to help.
If you’re not sure what to do when someone dies, the advice below can be used as a step-by-step guide to help your loved ones going through this difficult time.
You will be able to support them just by showing you care and being there for them, but it’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently.
Give them time and space if needed but remind them that you are there for them whenever they need you.
Speak Up, Don’t Avoid Them
When someone experiences a loss, it’s difficult to think of the best thing to say. What you shouldn’t do is avoid them altogether, this can make them feel even more lonely and almost invisible.
If you’re struggling with what to say, just letting them know that you care for them and supporting them can be enough. Speak to them about meeting up and taking their mind off things instead of leaving them to it. If they need space, then you can abide by their wishes.
Let Them Know You’re There
Showing support and letting someone know you’re always there is very important to someone that is grieving. They may not want to talk, but having your company can help. As long as you consistently remind them that you can pop by when needed, or if they just need a phone call, this can make a great difference.
Listen, Listen, Listen
Being a good listener is one of the most important elements of helping someone who’s grieving. Let them talk, let them express how they’re feeling and simply be a shoulder to cry on.
It might be helpful to talk about the person who has died to help keep their memory alive. It can be nice to look back on their memories with them. And although this can be upsetting, it can help them realise that they will always be there in memory.
However, see how they react. Some people will want to avoid talking about them too early on as this can be too upsetting. Ask them how they would like to deal with it, and support them with this.
Be Understanding
It’s normal for an individual grieving to have mood swings, not want to leave the house or find it hard to socialise. Again, everyone will deal with it differently so just be understanding about the way in which they would like to grieve.
In times like this, it’s crucial to give them the time they need. Listen to their needs and gauge their reaction to things. This can help you understand the stage of grieving that they’re at.
Help with Daily Tasks
In the initial grieving stages, it’s likely that they won’t have the energy to complete normal daily tasks like going to the supermarket, doing the washing or cooking dinner. It’s times like these where your help can really make a noticeable difference.
Go to the shops for them or even cook them dinner. Offer to help with specific things instead of being generic, they’ll be more likely to accept your help that way. But anything you do that makes their lives easier during this time will make them extremely grateful.
You may not even feel the need to ask them if they need help, simply make them their favourite dinner and show up at their door with it. They’re likely to be extremely thankful.
Give Them Time
Accept that it may take time for them to feel themselves again. As long as you’re there for them through the whole process, the quicker they may feel like they’re getting back to normal. However, if you find it difficult to support your loved one and don’t know what to do when someone dies, you can get in touch with professionals to help. Getting extra help will allow you to provide the right amount of support if you’re starting to feel like it is too much pressure.